At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to develop exciting product ranges in gifting and homeware.
- Company: Creative organisation in central London with a vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, paid holidays, and pension scheme for freelancers.
- Other info: Temporary role with potential for quick placement — apply now!
- Why this job: Be part of a hands-on role that blends creativity with commercial insight.
- Qualifications: Experience in buying/product development and strong organisational skills required.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 € per year.
We’re looking for a freelance assistant/junior buyer to join the retail team of a cultural and creative organisation based in central London, working across a diverse range of gifts, design‑led homeware, and stationery. This is a temporary role for an initial 3 months. Suitable candidates must be immediately available and not on notice. This is a hands‑on, end‑to‑end buying & product development role, working closely with cross‑functional teams and external suppliers to bring thoughtful, commercially‑minded products to life — all rooted in creativity, storytelling, and quality.
Responsibilities
- Develop and deliver seasonal and campaign‑based product ranges across gifting, homeware, and stationery.
- Manage the full product lifecycle — from concept and supplier briefing through to final delivery.
- Collaborate with internal teams to ensure product alignment with marketing, merchandising, and creative strategies.
- Support packaging development and ensure all specs, artwork, and product information are accurate and production‑ready.
- Maintain product trackers, timelines, and costings with close attention to detail and commercial awareness.
- Research trends and product innovations to inform development direction and suggest new ideas.
- Contribute to sustainability initiatives and supplier data collection where needed.
Candidate Requirements
- Prior experience in a buying/product development role, ideally within gift, stationery, accessories, and jewellery.
- Strong knowledge of sourcing and production processes, with experience working with UK and overseas suppliers.
- Confident managing timelines, critical paths, and multiple product categories simultaneously.
- Excellent communication, problem‑solving, and organisational skills.
- A strong eye for product, with good aesthetic judgement and attention to quality and detail.
- Commercially minded, with the ability to balance creativity with margin and price considerations.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office; knowledge of Microsoft NAV is a bonus.
Benefits
As a freelancer you will receive a competitive hourly rate, paid weekly, alongside paid holiday entitlement and the opportunity to join a pension scheme. This is a temporary opportunity, likely to be filled quickly — so apply today to avoid missing out!
Assistant Buyer - Gifting & Accessories employer: Fashion & Retail Personnel
Join a vibrant cultural and creative organisation in the heart of central London as an Assistant Buyer, where you will be part of a dynamic retail team dedicated to bringing innovative and quality products to life. Enjoy a supportive work culture that values creativity and collaboration, with opportunities for professional growth and development in a fast-paced environment. As a freelancer, benefit from a competitive hourly rate, paid holiday entitlement, and the chance to contribute to meaningful projects that resonate with storytelling and sustainability.
Contact Detail:
Fashion & Retail Personnel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Buyer - Gifting & Accessories
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. Sometimes, it's all about who you know, so don't be shy about asking for introductions or recommendations.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your portfolio ready! Showcase your previous work in buying or product development, especially if it relates to gifts or homeware. A well-organised portfolio can really set you apart and show off your creativity and attention to detail.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on trends! Research the latest in gifting and homeware to impress during interviews. Showing that you’re in tune with current market trends can demonstrate your passion and commercial awareness.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it super easy for you to find roles that match your skills. Plus, applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other candidates, so don’t miss out!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Buyer - Gifting & Accessories
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Products:When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for gifting and accessories! Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your love for creative products and how you can contribute to our mission.
Be Detail-Oriented:We’re all about quality and attention to detail, so make sure your application reflects that. Double-check for typos and ensure your formatting is clean and professional. This shows us you care about the little things!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to the role of Assistant Buyer. Highlight your relevant experience in buying and product development, especially in gifts and homeware.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity. Plus, it makes it easier for us to keep track of applicants!
How to prepare for a job interview at Fashion & Retail Personnel
✨Know Your Products
Before the interview, dive deep into the types of gifts, homeware, and stationery the company offers. Familiarise yourself with their current product lines and think about how you can contribute to developing new ranges. This shows your genuine interest and helps you speak confidently about how you can add value.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be ready to discuss your previous buying or product development experience in detail. Prepare specific examples that highlight your skills in managing timelines, working with suppliers, and collaborating with teams. This will demonstrate your hands-on approach and ability to handle the end-to-end buying process.
✨Emphasise Creativity and Commercial Awareness
Since this role balances creativity with commercial considerations, come prepared with ideas on how to merge the two. Think about trends you've researched and how they could influence product development. This will show that you’re not just creative but also understand the market dynamics.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's approach to sustainability, product innovation, and collaboration with suppliers. This not only shows your enthusiasm for the role but also your understanding of the industry. It’s a great way to engage with the interviewers and leave a lasting impression.
